Welcome to the Jungle
By Laureen Young
Editors are strange people.
Professional gluttons for punishment, some might say. We are often up against tight deadlines, but the stories come with no set finish line. We must be meticulous in our attention to detail while maintaining boundless creativity. We are steadfast in our commitment to the rules of the written word, but we are amenable to the countless ways a story can be told.
For the first iteration of this column, “The Editor’s Culture Corner,” I could think of no more fitting topic than houseplants. They, like storytelling, are an artistic undertaking that, while unable to ever be fully perfected, are a work of the heart that requires a bit of knowledge and a measure of adaptability.
Nothing says HOME like a house plant.
I am a self-professed plant lady wannabe, learning as I go, pruning and propagating my way to the indoor jungle of my dreams. As I reflect, there are a great many things that this hobby has in common with my work as an editor, especially here at HOME.
The most striking parallel to be drawn is that seeing growth is fulfilling. It is gratifying to witness something bloom from the seeds of dedication, patience and care.
Like anything that can grow, change or metamorphose, the work we do here at HOME is an exercise in adaptability. Along with the magazine’s new name, much has taken place beneath the surface. Adjustments have been made. Challenges have been met. And while we have yet to flourish to our full potential, I am confident we are growing something beautiful.
Say “aloe” to my little friends.
Pothos: If you are new to the plant game, do yourself a favor. Start here. A Pothos was my very first houseplant and what I always recommend to new plant parents. They are nearly impossible to kill. Place this plant in medium, indirect sunlight and water whenever the soil is dry. These babies will grow 12 to 18 inches a month.
Polkadot Begonias: There is an overwhelming number of begonia types, and some are notoriously difficult to keep happy. These polkadot begonias, though, require similar care to the Pothos and are a colorful addition to any houseplant collection.
Peacock Plant: A total conversation piece, the peacock plant flexes and points from day to night. When the sun goes down, they stand tall and tight, closed up like a pair of praying hands. Then, in the morning, BAM– Jazz Hands. While the movement can be intimidating, these plants require only medium light, water and a bit of attention to humidity levels.
Plant Parent Pro-tip:
iPhone Hack: If you have an iPhone, snap a picture of any plant and swipe up with your thumb. Click on the leaf to look up the its name and find links to sites with more information and care instructions.
Laureen Young is the editorial director of Guide to Greater Gainesville, Guide to Greater Tampa Bay and HOME: Living in Greater Gainesville magazines. The Editor’s Culture Corner is a monthly column where she shares a variety of arts and culture-related topics.
